DE202018104449U1 - Cash desk arrangement with at least three goods troughs and distribution mechanism - Google Patents

Abstract

A checkout arrangement (20) for detecting goods by a cashier, a follower belt (30) adjoining the detection unit (20), at least three goods troughs (50; 50a, 50b, 50c) each directly adjoining the follower belt (30). 30) adapted to transport the detected goods from the detection unit (20) to the goods troughs (50; 50a, 50b, 50c) and a distribution mechanism which can automatically and / or manually take a number of different spatial configurations corresponds to a total number of goods troughs (50; 50a, 50b, 50c), wherein the goods transported on the tail conveyor (30) in each of the configurations of the distribution mechanism from the tail conveyor (30) directly into a different goods trough (50; 50a, 50b, 50c), wherein the distribution mechanism has at least one deflecting element (40; 80, 81; 90, 91), which extends between at least two positions (40 ', 40 ", 80', 81 ', 90', 91 ') is automatically and / or manually adjustable and in at least one of these positions (40 ', 40 "; 80 ', 81'; 90 ', 91') projects beyond the trailing belt (30) to divert the goods transported on the trailing belt (30) directly into one of the goods troughs (50; 50a, 50b, 50c), each of the goods trays (50; 50a, 50b , 50c) is associated with its own payment terminal (60), which is connected to the detection unit (20).

Description

The invention relates to a cash desk arrangement with a detection unit for detecting goods by a cashier and having at least three goods troughs.

Cash desk arrangements, such as those used in supermarkets and department stores, usually have a workstation for a cashier, which is typically equipped with a cash register with goods scanner for detecting the goods. Such cash desk arrangements usually have a conveyor belt referred to as lead conveyor, which will bring the goods to the workstation of the cashier. Often, the cash register is followed by a conveyor belt referred to as a follower belt, which actively transports the already scanned goods away from the cashier's workplace and onto a goods trough, in which the goods come to rest and comfortably by the customers can be recorded and packed, for example.

In the goods trough facilities are provided in part, which further transport the goods within the goods trough a piece or support the onward transport. In this sense, the goods trough or a part of the goods trough may for example be inclined and / or equipped with a roller box. On the rollers of the roller box, the goods can slide from the end of the trailing belt to one end of the goods tray by rotating the rotatably mounted rollers with the goods sliding over them. Optionally, the rollers can also be actively driven. In principle, it is also conceivable that the goods trough or an initial region of the goods trough in turn has a conveyor belt which actively continues the goods from the entrance of the goods trough to an end region of the goods trough.

On one of the goods trough opposite side of the cash desk assembly, the customer can approach the cash desk assembly and store his goods on the conveyor belt. These are transported on the conveyor belt to the cash register and thus to the workstation of the cashier and read there by him using the goods scanner. The cashier then pushes the detected goods on to the tail conveyor on which they are transported to the goods trough. The customer can finally remove the goods from the goods tray.

In the known cash desk arrangements, only one goods trough is provided. There are cash desk arrangements in which in the goods trough a manually adjustable by the cashier between two positions pivot arm is provided which divides a remote from the end of the tail conveyor end of the goods trough into two sub-areas. Depending on the manually adjustable position of the swivel arm, the goods pass from an entrance area of the goods trough into one or the other portion of the goods trough.

After all the goods of a customer have been scanned, this customer pays the cashier. During this time, the cashier is solely concerned with the payment process of this customer. This creates long and unpopular waiting times for subsequent customers.

In addition, customers often need some time to remove their paid goods from the goods bin and pack them, for example. Even if the end region of the goods trough is subdivided by the pivoting arm into two partial areas, only two such partial areas are available to the customers. It is therefore often the case that the cashier can not serve a new customer, since both areas are still occupied by goods from previous customers. This causes additional delays.

In addition, the cashier must manually adjust the swivel arm. On the one hand, this is unergonomic and on the other hand burdens the cashier by means of another work step, which, in particular with large numbers of customers, can cause additional stress for the cashier and additionally takes up his time. Sometimes also a proper use and conversion of the swing arm, especially for the reasons mentioned omitted.

The object of the present invention is to provide a cash desk arrangement which facilitates the work of the cashier and reduces the waiting times for customers.

The above object is achieved by a cash desk arrangement having the features of claim 1.

The cash desk arrangement according to the invention comprises a detection unit for detecting goods by a cashier, a tracking belt, which adjoins the detection unit and at least three goods troughs, each immediately adjacent to the tail conveyor, which is designed for transporting the detected goods from the detection unit to the goods troughs and further comprising a distribution mechanism capable of automatically and / or manually accepting a number of different spatial configurations corresponding to a total number of goods troughs, the goods transported on the tail conveyor being in each of the configurations of the distribution mechanism are guided by the follower belt directly into a respective other goods trough, wherein the distribution mechanism has at least one deflecting element which is automatically and / or manually adjustable between at least two positions and projects beyond the trailing belt in at least one of these positions to divert goods transported on the tail conveyor directly into one of the goods troughs, wherein each of the goods troughs is assigned its own payment terminal, which is connected to the registration unit.

It has been shown that the collection of the goods and the payment on conventional cash desk arrangements take about the same amount of time. In the checkout arrangement according to the invention, the customers can pay for their goods independently of each other at the different payment terminals. The checkout arrangement can be used by several customers at the same time. The cashier does not need to constantly interrupt the collection of goods through payment transactions. That makes his job easier. He can also concentrate on the correct recording of the goods. This results in a high time saving, so that the waiting times for the customers are shortened. Shorter waiting times increase customer satisfaction and improve their shopping experience.

By providing at least three goods troughs, no or fewer delays occur because previous customers have not yet emptied the goods used for their goods and / or have not yet completed their payment process. In particular, in the case of extensive purchases with a great many goods, the empty spaces of the goods trough and the packing of the goods can take even more time than the collection or payment of the goods. In general, waiting times are reliably reduced significantly only if at least three goods troughs are used in conjunction with the respectively assigned payment terminals. In particular, the checkout arrangement of up to three customers can be used simultaneously if three goods troughs are provided.

In addition, the fact that every customer pays their own payment terminal also reduces the pressure on customers to pay quickly, especially when there is a high number of customers. The invention gives the customer more time to check the recorded goods or prices and to handle their payment process carefully and stress-free. At the same time, this reduces the risk of customers forgetting their wallets, money, cards for payment, some of their goods or other items due to stress at the cash register.

Due to the fact that the registration unit is designed to be operated by a cashier, the customer, notwithstanding the independent payment terminals, is available to the cashier as a contact person directly at the cash desk arrangement, for example with questions about goods or difficulties during the payment process. In addition, it is more likely to ensure that all goods taken by customers are actually properly recorded and paid for.

With the present invention, the distribution of goods after detection by means of the detection unit is automated by the distribution mechanism. This makes the cashier's job easier.

In addition, the cashier does not come in contact with cash. This is advantageous for hygienic reasons, among other things. It also reduces the risk of cash loss.

The goods troughs can be formed on one or on different goods delivery tables. In particular, all goods troughs can be formed on a goods delivery table and delimited from one another by dividing elements (such as dividing walls).

Preferably, the at least one deflecting element is automatically adjustable between the at least two positions. The fact that the deflecting element is automatically adjustable between the at least two positions means that the deflecting element does not have to be mechanically adjusted manually between the two positions. The at least one deflecting element is configured accordingly. This makes it easier for the cashier to work, thus speeding up successive cash transactions using different troughs and improving the ergonomics and health and safety for the cashier. Especially preferred the checkout arrangement has a motor and / or a compressed air drive for adjusting the deflection element. Most preferably, a safety device is provided for the motor and / or pneumatic drive for adjusting the deflecting element in order to avoid injuries, in particular anti-pinch protection.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the distribution mechanism may automatically assume the number of different spatial configurations corresponding to the total number of goods troughs. This means that the configuration of the distribution mechanism does not have to be changed manually by hand. The distribution mechanism is configured accordingly. For this purpose, for example, several automatically adjustable deflection can be provided. Most preferably, the cash desk assembly on a motor and / or a pneumatic drive for changing the configuration of the distribution mechanism. Exceptionally preferred is a safety device for the motor and / or pneumatic drive for changing the configuration of the distribution mechanism to prevent injuries provided, in particular an anti-trap.

Alternatively or additionally, the different spatial or at least some of the different spatial configurations of the distribution mechanism can be manually, ie mechanically by hand, adjustable. Accordingly, for example, the at least one deflecting element can be adjusted manually, ie mechanically by hand, between its at least two positions.

If the distribution mechanism is only manually adjustable, the checkout counter assembly can be made particularly simple, fast and inexpensive. In particular, no protection devices for automatic adjustment such as anti-pinch or torque limiting need to be provided. The option of manual adjustment or adjustability in addition to the automatic adjustment or adjustability is advantageous, for example, in the event that the motor or pneumatic drive is not working correctly. It can also be provided, for example, that in a distribution mechanism with a plurality of deflecting elements, a first part of the deflecting elements is manually and only a second part of the deflecting elements automatically and / or manually adjustable. Conveniently, the first part may comprise the deflection element or the deflection elements, which are arranged spatially closer to the detection unit.

In particular, the distribution mechanism may change from a first configuration to a second configuration by adjusting the diverter element from a first position to a second position of its at least two positions. The distribution mechanism can automatically and / or manually assume at least one further configuration in that the at least one deflection element is automatically and / or manually adjustable to a third position and / or in that the distribution mechanism has a further deflection element, which in turn automatically and / or between at least two positions. or manually adjustable.

In general, the distribution mechanism can take on the total number of different spatial configurations, which corresponds to the total number of goods troughs by the at least one deflection element in more than its at least two positions automatically and / or manually adjustable and / or by the distribution mechanism another deflection or has a plurality of further deflection elements, which in turn are automatically and / or manually adjustable in each case between at least two positions.

By the payment terminals are each connected to the registration unit, the goods covered by the registration unit, their prices and / or the total price of related goods can be transmitted to the payment terminal. This avoids the risk of incorrect entries of the amount to be paid. The payment terminals can be connected directly or indirectly, for example via a server, to the registration unit.

All goods troughs directly adjoin the trailing belt and the distribution mechanism is designed to direct goods transported on the trailing belt directly from the trailing belt into the various goods troughs. So there is no further element between the trailing band and the respective goods trough interposed. In particular, the present invention requires no additional distribution unit which is arranged between the trailing belt and one, several or all goods troughs. Instead, the goods pass directly from the trailing belt into the goods trough which is in each case projected by the configuration of the distribution mechanism. The tracking belt also serves as a "distribution surface". This significantly reduces the space required for the cash desk arrangement. Correspondingly, the at least one deflecting element protrudes in at least one of its at least two positions over the overrun belt in order to deflect the goods transported on the overrun belt directly from the overrun belt into one of the goods pits.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, exactly one configuration of the distribution mechanism is such that the goods are not deflected by the distribution mechanism at all and are transported on the tail conveyor to its end and from there pass directly into a last goods trough. In this configuration, the distribution mechanism directs the goods into the desired goods trough, without diverting them. This simplifies the construction of the distribution mechanism. In all other configurations, of course, a deflection of goods on the trailing band is necessary.

The end of the trailing belt in the sense of the invention is the end of the trailing belt facing away from the detection unit along the transport direction. The beginning of the trailing band in the sense of the invention is the end of the trailing band opposite the end, which faces the registration unit.

In an advantageous embodiment, at least one payment terminal, particularly preferably each payment terminal, has a printing device. This allows customers to print a receipt at the payment terminal.

In a further preferred embodiment, at least one payment terminal, particularly preferably each payment terminal, has a display device, for example a display. The display device can be used to display to the customer the goods recorded at the registration unit for him, their prices, a total price and / or further information. Optionally, the display can also be used as an information and / or advertisement, as long as no customer uses the payment terminal.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the cash desk arrangement additionally has a supply conveyor for transporting goods to the registration unit. This allows customers to place their goods in sequence on the leader conveyor, thereby speeding up the collection of goods and further reducing waiting times.

Preferably, the detection unit has a scanning device for reading code marks. Particularly preferably, the scanning device is configured to read bar codes and / or matrix codes. The detection unit can automatically identify and record the scanned goods based on the read code mark.

Alternatively or additionally, the detection unit is set up to allow the cashier to completely manually acquire goods, in particular by entering a product identifier and / or by entering a price of the goods. This allows the cashier to react flexibly if no code or incorrect code is attached to the goods.

Preferably, the goods troughs and the detection unit are combined in a cash register. Particularly preferably, the detection unit, the trailing edge and the goods trough are combined in a Kassenmöbel, most preferably also the supply conveyor. This ensures a stable construction, a high reliability and an appealing look of the cash desk arrangement.

In one embodiment of the invention, the goods troughs along a transport direction of the trailing belt are arranged one behind the other and all goods troughs or all but one of the goods troughs are arranged laterally of the trailing belt on the same side of the trailing belt. Thus, the checkout counter assembly is generally elongated in shape and is at least substantially used by only one side of the customer. As a result, a width of the space required for the operation of the cash desk arrangement transversely to the transport direction remains low and it can be used in a small space several cash desk arrangements in parallel side by side.

Particularly preferably, all but one of the goods troughs are arranged laterally of the trailing belt on the same side of the trailing belt, and a further goods trough is arranged as the last goods trough at the end of the trailing belt. Thus, a longitudinal end in the direction of transport of the cash desk arrangement for a goods trough is also used. This further increases the space efficiency of the cash register system during operation.

A further, particularly preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that all goods troughs are arranged on the same side of the follower belt and that the deflecting element is movable by means of a linear guide along the transport direction, wherein the deflecting over the trailing belt across its width transverse to the transport direction extends and along the transport direction by means of the linear guide in a number of different positions automatically and / or manually displaceable, which corresponds to the total number of goods troughs, and wherein the deflecting the goods transported on the trailing belt in each of these positions of the trailing belt in a respective other of Goods dumps diverted.

By this construction, the displacement mechanism has only a single deflecting element and thus a particularly small number of moving components. As a result, the displacement mechanism is particularly robust and reliable. In addition, the cash desk assembly with this displacement mechanism is particularly simple and inexpensive to produce.

Most preferably, a deflection surface of the deflecting element for deflecting the goods over the trailing belt, which faces in the transport direction of the detection unit, rotated by a transverse direction of the transport direction in an angular range of 30 ° to 70 ° to the side of the trailing belt, to which all goods trays are arranged. This ensures a reliable and gentle deflection of the goods on the trailing belt. The deflection surface can extraordinarily preferably have planar, substantially planar and / or curved surfaces, in particular concavely curved. In particular, the entire deflection surface may be flat or at least substantially planar.

Most preferably, the deflecting element is additionally provided with a clearing device, which is designed to convey goods left on the overfeed belt into the goods trough into which the goods are to be conveyed according to a current position of the deflecting element. For example, a folding slide with a longitudinal end at an end of the deflecting element facing the goods can be arranged automatically and / or manually rotatable and from a basic position in which it is parallel to the deflection of the deflection, away from the deflection to the side of the Caster belt with the goods troughs and back automatically and / or manually be pivoted. In this case, the folding slide in its basic position itself form at least a portion of the deflection.

In a further, particularly preferred embodiment it is provided that the checkout arrangement has exactly three goods troughs and that the distribution mechanism has a first and a second deflecting element which are each automatically and / or manually rotatable between a deflecting position and a neutral position about a respective axis of rotation the axes of rotation are respectively oriented at least substantially perpendicular to the transport direction and to a goods support surface of the follower belt, the first deflecting element being arranged in front of the second deflecting element in the transport direction, wherein in a first configuration of the distributing mechanism the first deflecting element is in its deflecting position and the deflected goods transported on the trailing band in a first lateral goods trough, wherein in a second configuration of the distribution mechanism, the first deflecting element is in its neutral position, while the second Umlenkelem ent is in its deflecting position and deflects the goods transported on the tail conveyor into a second lateral goods trough, and wherein in a third configuration of the distribution mechanism, the first deflecting element and the second deflecting element are each in their neutral position and the goods transported by the tailing conveyor to a third Goods trough to be transported.

In this embodiment, although two deflection elements are necessary, but these are designed as rotatable deflection. Rotatable deflecting elements are particularly simple and inexpensive to implement and less prone to jamming and jamming as translationally moving deflecting elements. The two deflection elements can be designed, for example, as automatically and / or manually rotatable pivot arms.

Most preferably, the first deflecting element and the second deflecting element in their neutral position each act as a lateral guide for the goods transported on the overfeed conveyor.

In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the checkout arrangement has exactly three goods troughs, wherein two lateral goods troughs are formed on transversely opposite to the transport direction sides of the follower belt and further a third goods trough is arranged at one end of the follower belt. To effectively shorten the waiting times, as described above, at least three goods troughs are required. The proposed arrangement has a particularly space-saving base and the trailing edge remains relatively short. Customers can use the goods troughs from three sides. In addition, a spatial proximity of all goods troughs to the registration unit is maintained, so that customers can turn to all the troughs particularly easy to the cashier if they have questions or difficulties.

Particularly preferably, the distribution mechanism has a first and a second deflecting element, which are each automatically and / or manually rotatable between a deflecting position and a neutral position about a respective axis of rotation, wherein the axes of rotation each at least substantially perpendicular to the transport direction and to a goods support surface of the trailing belt are oriented, wherein in a first configuration of the distribution mechanism, the second deflecting element is in its neutral position, while the first deflecting element is in its deflecting position and deflects the goods transported on the tail conveyor goods in a first lateral goods trough, wherein in a second configuration of the distribution mechanism the first deflecting element is in its neutral position, while the second deflecting element is in its deflecting position and deflects the goods transported on the trailing belt into a second lateral goods trough, and wherein in egg ner third configuration of the distribution mechanism, the first deflecting element and the second deflecting element are each in their neutral position and the goods transported by the trailing belt are transported from the trailing belt to the third goods tray. The proposed construction makes do with only two movable deflecting elements. In addition, they must be rotatable only automatically and not be displaced.

Above all, the first deflecting element and the second deflecting element act in their neutral position in each case as a side guide for the goods transported on the overfeed conveyor.

Each payment terminal is preferably arranged in each case at or directly at the goods trough, which it is associated with. This way there are no additional routes for the customers.

In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, at least one of the payment terminals comprises a card payment terminal. Particularly preferably, each payment terminal comprises a card payment terminal. In particular, the card payment terminal can be configured for payment by debit card and / or credit card. Alternatively or additionally, a payment terminal, several or all payment terminals for payment via mobile and / or Internet services can be configured. The share of payment transactions with debit cards, credit cards and mobile and Internet services continues to increase. For the customer, the payment process becomes easier and faster. You can also pay even if you do not have cash at hand.

Preferably, the cash desk arrangement comprises at least one module for cash payments. Some customers continue to prefer cash payment on a regular basis. This customer preference is taken into account. The at least one module for cash payments may itself form one of the payment terminals, be part of one of the payment terminals or be provided in addition to the payment terminals. Since only a portion of the customers wish to pay in cash, it is generally not necessary for each unit to have its own module allocated for cash payments. Nevertheless, each payment terminal particularly preferably comprises a module for cash payments. As a result, the cash register system is also optimally equipped for the case that all customers want to pay in cash. A module for cash payments, which does not itself (ie alone) forms one of the payment terminals, may be assigned to one of the payment terminals or flexibly assignable to several or all of the payment terminals. The reverse applies also to card payment terminals.

Without prejudice to specific explanations, in the invention it is generally only important that each goods trough is exclusively assigned a payment terminal which enables at least one payment method. This prevents customers from having to re-pay for payment. The latter would threaten if fewer payment terminals were to be provided as goods dumps.

This is illustrated below by non-exhaustive examples: Thus, the invention comprises a checkout arrangement with three goods troughs and three card payment terminals, which are assigned as the payment terminals exclusively one of the goods troughs, as well as an additional module for cash payments, paid with the flexible for each of the three goods troughs can be. The invention also includes the reverse case of a checkout counter with three troughs and three modules for cash payments, each of which is assigned exclusively to one of the troughs as the payment terminals, and an additional card payment terminal, which can be paid flexibly for each of the three troughs. Also included is a checkout arrangement with three goods troughs and three payment terminals, which are each assigned to one of the three goods troughs, one of the payment terminals being designed as a card payment terminal, another module for cash payments and a third payment terminal both a card payment terminal and a module for cash payments includes.

In a further development of the invention, a signaling device is provided for at least one of the goods troughs for the confirmation of the status of payment transactions at this goods trough and / or at the payment terminal assigned to this goods trough. Particularly preferably, a signaling device is provided for each of the goods troughs for the confirmation of the status of payment transactions at the respective goods trough and / or at the payment terminal assigned to the respective goods trough. For example, the signaling device may be configured to send a success signal when a payment transaction has been successfully completed and / or to send an error signal if a payment transaction has been aborted or failed. Alternatively or additionally, it may be configured to send a payment transaction signal as long as the payment terminal is being used for a payment transaction.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the signal device is designed as a light signal device at the payment terminal and / or at the associated goods trough. This is immediately visible to the cashier or other staff, at which warehouse is currently running a payment process, has been completed and / or failed.

Alternatively or additionally, the signaling device can send the signals directly to the detection unit and the detection unit can be provided with a display device in order to display to the cashier the information transmitted with the signal. The signaling device can also send the signals to a server and / or send them to a central station for several checkout arrangements according to the invention. The central station is provided with a display unit (for example a display) in order to display to an operator the information transmitted with the signal with reference to the affected cash desk arrangement and the affected goods trough or the relevant payment terminal. In this way, for multiple POS systems, a central station for assisting customers with payment transactions set up. When a fault is displayed at the central station, its operator can go to the affected payment terminal and assist the customer on the spot, while the cashier of the affected cash register continues unhindered with the collection of the goods of other customers for other goods troughs.

Preferably, upon completion of detecting related goods, the detection unit causes the configuration of the distribution mechanism to change automatically. For this purpose, the detection unit may be configured to receive an input from the cashier that the collection of related goods has been completed. This is the case, for example, when all the goods of a customer have been recorded. In response, the distribution mechanism takes a different configuration. As a result, the following goods of another customer are directed to another goods trough. So the cashier does not need to make an additional input to change the configuration of the distribution mechanism. This simplifies the work for him and ensures optimal use of the various troughs.

Preferably, alternatively or additionally, the detection unit is designed so that manually from the cashier the goods tray is selectable, in which the goods transported on the tail conveyor are passed, after which the distribution mechanism automatically assumes its required configuration. The cashier can select specifically in which goods well the following goods should be directed. This is particularly advantageous if the goods troughs have different capacities. The cashier can assign customers, who bring many goods to the cash desk arrangement, in good time before the beginning of the detection of goods a sufficiently large goods trough. On the other hand, the cashier does not have to manually change the configuration of the distribution mechanism by hand and also does not have to consider in which position the deflection element must be adjusted or in which positions the deflection elements must be adjusted, because this is done automatically.

In a development, a control unit is provided for controlling the distribution mechanism, which is connected to the detection unit. This allows a modular design of the checkout counter assembly.

In one development of the invention, at least one part of at least one goods trough is inclined and / or equipped with a roller box. Particularly preferred rollers of the roller box are actively driven. Alternatively or additionally, a conveyor belt is preferably arranged in at least one goods trough for the further transport of the goods that have entered the goods trough. As a result, the goods can easily get to one end of this goods trough and be easily removed.

The invention will be explained below with reference to embodiments with reference to the figures. All described and / or illustrated features alone or in any combination form the subject matter of the invention, also independent of the summary in the claims or their back references

• 1 eine erste erfindungsgemäße Ausführungsform einer Kassentischanordnung in Aufsicht,
• 2 eine zweite erfindungsgemäße Ausführungsform einer Kassentischanordnung in Aufsicht,
• 3 eine dritte erfindungsgemäße Ausführungsform einer Kassentischanordnung in Aufsicht,
• 4 die Kassentischanordnung aus 3 in einer perspektivischen Ansicht.

Show it:

• 1 a first embodiment of a checkout counter arrangement according to the invention,
• 2 a second embodiment of a checkout counter arrangement according to the invention,
• 3 a third embodiment of a checkout counter arrangement according to the invention,
• 4 the checkout arrangement 3 in a perspective view.

A first embodiment of a checkout counter arrangement according to the invention is shown in FIG 1 shown. It includes a leader tape 10 , a registration unit 20 , a trailer belt 30 , a distribution mechanism with exactly one deflection element 40 , three goods troughs 50 , three payment terminals 60 , each one of the goods troughs 50 are assigned exclusively, and an additional module for cash payments 70 ,

The fore conveyor 10 , the registration unit 20 , the cashier compartment 24 , the trailer belt 30 , the distribution mechanism, the three goods troughs 50 with the respective payment terminal 60 and the module for cash payments 70 are integrated together in a cash register furniture.

Customers can access the lead belt 10 Put on the goods, which then from the leader tape 10 to the registration unit 20 be transported, on which a cashier can work.

The registration unit 20 has a goods scanner 21 for collecting goods. The goods scanner 21 In particular, it reads in bar codes and / or matrix codes and can use this to identify and record the scanned goods.

In addition, the detection unit includes 20 a screen 22 on which the registration unit 20 to the cashier the goods already recorded, their prices and the total price of the scanned goods together. The screen 22 is as Touchpad and allows the cashier to enter goods manually, in particular by means of a code number or a menu-guided manual selection. In addition, the cashier can with the screen 22 delete or correct incorrect or over-recorded goods.

The cashier can use the screen 22 enter that a collection of related goods - for example, the collection of all goods of a customer - is completed. The registration unit then initiates 20 automatically that the configuration of the distribution mechanism changes. The following goods - for example, another customer - are therefore in another of the goods troughs 50 directed. If necessary, the cashier can over the screen 22 specifically a goods trough 50 in which the subsequent goods are routed through the distribution mechanism. A requisite spatially required configuration of the distribution mechanism then adjusts the checkout arrangement automatically.

Finally, the registration unit 20 with a receipt printer 23 which documents such as receipts and receipts can be printed out.

For the cashier is at the registration unit 20 a cashier compartment 24 intended.

To the registration unit 20 closes the trailer belt 30 to that at the registration unit 20 and from the cashier to the tail conveyor 30 launched or moved goods along a transport direction 31 in the direction of the three goods troughs 50 promoted.

The three goods troughs 50 are all on the same side of the tracking belt 30 arranged which is the side with the cashier compartment 24 opposite. They each border directly on the trailing edge 30 on, are therefore arranged directly on this. Furthermore, they are along the transport direction 31 arranged directly behind one another. Neighboring goods troughs 50 are each through a partition wall 51 separated.

The distribution mechanism has only one deflecting element in this embodiment 40 on. It extends over a complete width of the tracking belt 30 transverse to its transport direction 31 , The deflecting element 40 is elongated. It will be on one side of the tail belt 30 , the side with the goods troughs 50 opposite, by a carriage 41 held along a rail device 42 by a motor (not shown). The sled 41 and the rail device 42 form a longitudinal guide for the deflecting element 40. By means of this longitudinal guide is the deflecting element along the transport direction 31 automatically and / or manually movable back and forth. In particular, the longitudinal guide, the deflection 40 between a second position, in which the deflecting element 40 in 1 is just arranged, as well as a first position 40 ' and a third position 40 " automatically adjust.

If the deflector as in 1 is positioned in the middle, second position, then deflects a deflection surface 43 of the deflecting element 40 which of the registration unit 20 facing, on the trailing edge 30 transported goods in the middle or along the transport direction 31 seen second goods trough 50 around.

Is the deflecting element 40 in the front, first position 40 ' , so deflects the deflection 43 the goods in the front or first goods trough 50 around. Is the deflector in the rear, third position 40 " , so deflects the deflection 43 the goods from the trailer conveyor 30 in the rear or third goods trough 50 around.

Due to the three different positions of the deflecting element 40 along the transport direction 31 Thus, the distribution mechanism can assume three different configurations. This number corresponds to the total number of goods troughs 50 , In each of the configurations, those are on the trailing edge 30 transported goods from the trailer conveyor directly into each one of the other goods troughs 50 guided, more precisely redirected.

The automatic adjustment of the deflection element 40 by the motor for the linear guide is performed by a control module (not shown), which with the detection unit 20 connected and set up by the registration unit 20 Receive commands for setting a specific configuration.

When the desired configuration is achieved, the control module sends an acknowledgment signal to the detection unit 20 , If the setting fails, it sends an error signal to the detection unit 20 , If the registration unit 20 receives such an error signal, it displays an error message on its screen 22 at.

The deflection surface 40 is at the in 1 shown embodiment, a flat surface which is perpendicular to the goods support surface of the trailing belt 30 is oriented and opposite to a transverse direction to the transport direction 31 at an angle of about 51 ° to the side of the tail belt 30 turned to where all goods trays 50 are arranged.

Immediately to each of the goods troughs 50 is each a payment terminal 60 arranged, which of these goods trough 50 assigned. Each of the payment terminals includes a card payment terminal 61 to pay with debit cards or credit cards and a screen 62 on which the goods entered, their prices and the total price of the goods covered for each customer are displayed. For better usability, the payment units 60 rotatable at the respective goods trough 50 arranged. An associated control panel with the screen 62 and the card payment terminal 61 is also adjustable in inclination. The payment terminals 60 are each with the detection unit 20 connected, so that data on the combined goods, their prices and the total price to the respective payment terminal 60 be transmitted. In addition, each of the payment terminals transmits 60 while in use, a use signal to the detection unit 20 , When a payment has been successfully completed, the respective payment terminal transmits 60 also a success signal to the registration unit 20 if the payment was canceled or failed, on the other hand, an error signal. The registration unit 20 shows on her screen 22 on the basis of the received signals to which payment terminals 60 are in use and which payment transactions were successful or failed. This gives the cashier an overview of the ongoing, completed and failed payment transactions.

For customers who like to pay with cash, the checkout arrangement in 1 additionally a module for cash payments 70 on. The module for cash payments 70 is not part of the individual payment terminals 60 but is with all three payment terminals 60 and is optional for the payment for each of the goods troughs 50 used. Similar to the payment terminals 60 it has a screen 71 on. Additionally, for the module for cash payments 70 a receipt printer 72 intended. The customers can over the screen 71 , which is designed as a touchpad, choose for which of the three goods trays 50 or for which of the three payment terminals 60 you want to pay with cash instead of card. The module for cash payments 70 is set up for accepting coins and / or banknotes and for automatic issue of change.

The deflecting element 40 is additionally provided with a clearing device in the form of a folding slide. The folding slide is used to goods lying on the trailing band optionally from the trailing band 30 into the goods dump 50 to push into which the goods according to a current position of the deflecting element 40 should be directed. The folding slide is with a longitudinal end at one of the goods troughs 50 facing the end 44 of the deflecting element 40 by a motor (not visible) arranged automatically rotatable. By means of this motor, the folding slide from a basic position in which it is parallel to the deflection 43 of the deflecting element 40 located, from the deflection 43 away to the side of the tail belt 30 with the goods troughs 50 and back automatically swiveling. In its basic position, the folding slide is in the deflecting element 40 recorded and therefore in the supervision in 1 not to be seen. At the same time, the folding slide in its basic position itself forms part of the deflection surface 43 out. In 1 an intermediate position 45 of the folding slide is indicated, which he pivots between its basic position and a Abräumposition. In the Abräumposition the folding slide is so far from the deflection 43 swung away, that he parallel to the transport direction 30 is oriented and at the goods troughs 50 facing side of the trailing band 30 from the end 44 of the deflecting element 40 towards the registration unit 20 extends.

Starting from the in 1 can also show other goods troughs 50 with an assigned payment terminal 60 and with an associated, additional position for the deflecting element 40 be provided. In this way, in principle, a cash register arrangements with any number, arranged one behind the other in series goods troughs 50 be realized, for example, a cash register arrangement with four consecutively arranged in series goods troughs 50 (Not shown).

Another embodiment of the invention for a checkout counter assembly is shown in FIG 2 shown. Basically, this embodiment corresponds to the previously explained embodiment, therefore, the same reference numerals are used for the same elements and only the deviations from the previous embodiment explained.

In the 2 The embodiment shown differs from that in FIG 1 shown by another distribution mechanism. As a first deflecting element is a first pivot arm 80 provided as a second deflecting a second pivot arm 81 , The first swivel arm 80 is out of his in 2 shown neutral position about an axis of rotation 83 by a motor (not shown) automatically in its deflection position 80 ' and rotatable back. Alternatively or additionally, the first pivot arm 80 is out of his in 2 shown neutral position about the rotation axis 83 manually in its deflection position 80 ' and rotatable back.

Analog is the second arm 81 from his in 2 shown neutral position about a rotational axis 84 by a motor (not shown) automatically in its deflection position 81 ' and rotatable back.

The axes of rotation 83, 84 are each perpendicular to the transport direction 31 and perpendicular to a goods support surface of the trailing belt 30 , in the 2 is visible from above.

Consequently, the pivot arms 80 . 81 directly over the goods support surface of the trailing belt 30 pivotable. When they are pivoted into their respective deflection position 80 ', 81', therefore, no goods between the goods support surface and the respective pivot arm 80 . 81 drive through.

By means of the swivel arms 80 . 81 can the distribution mechanism of in 2 shown cash desk arrangement assume the following three configurations.

In a first configuration of the distribution mechanism, the first swing arm is located 80 in its deflection position 80 ' , As a result, he steers the on the tail belt 30 transported goods in the first lateral goods trough 50 from. The second swivel arm 81 can meanwhile in its neutral position, its deflection 81 ' or in any position therebetween - the goods are in any case previously from the first pivot arm 80 diverted. Preferably, however, the second pivot arm is in its neutral position in the first configuration.

In a second configuration of the distribution mechanism is the first pivot arm 80 in its neutral position, as in 2 is shown. The first swivel arm 80 steers the on the tail belt 30 transported goods, but instead forms a lateral guide for the goods. The second swivel arm 81 is on the other hand in its deflection position 81 ' and thereby steers the on the tail belt 30 transported goods in the middle, second lateral goods trough 50 from.

In 2 a third configuration of the distribution mechanism is shown. Both the first swivel arm 80 as well as the second swivel arm 81 are in their respective neutral position and steer the on the tail belt 30 not transported goods. Consequently, the trailing band transports 30 the resting goods up to his from the registration unit 20 opposite end. There the goods become of a static gang 32 in the rear, third goods trough 50 diverted.

In their neutral position are the swivel arms 80 . 81 each parallel to the transport direction 31 aligned and limit the tail belt 30 transverse to the transport direction 31 laterally on the side of the follower belt 30 where they are located.

Alternatively to the in 2 shown cash desk arrangement may be the third goods trough 50 - similar to in 3 - also directly in the transport direction 31 to the end of the trailer belt 30 connect (not shown). In this case, the gang is omitted 32 and the trailer belt 30 is a little shorter.

Starting from the in 2 can also show other goods troughs 50 with an assigned payment terminal 60 and provided with an associated, additional pivoting arm. Also in this way can in principle Kassenanordnungen with any number, arranged one behind the other in series goods troughs 50 be realized, for example, a cash register arrangement with four consecutively arranged in series goods troughs 50 (Not shown).

3 represents yet another embodiment of the present invention for a checkout arrangement. Basically, this embodiment corresponds to the previously described embodiments, therefore, the same reference numerals are used for the same elements and only the deviations from the previous embodiments explained.

Also in 3 The checkout arrangement shown has exactly three goods troughs 50 on. Unlike the previous embodiments, two lateral goods troughs 50a . 50b on opposite sides of the follower belt 30 transverse to the transport direction 31 arranged, so they are located on different sides of the tracking belt 30 , The last or third goods trough 50c Closes directly to the end of the tail belt 30 at.

The distribution mechanism of the checkout counter assembly in 3 has as a first deflecting a first pivot arm 90 and as a second deflecting a second pivot arm 91 on. The first swivel arm 90 is out of his in 3 shown neutral position about a rotation axis 93 automatically by a motor (not shown) and / or manually in its deflection position 90 ' and rotatable back. Analog is the second arm 91 from his in 2 shown neutral position about a rotary axis 84 automatically by a motor (not shown) and / or manually in its deflection position 91 ' and rotatable back.

Similar to in 2 the axes of rotation 93, 94 are each perpendicular to the transport direction 31 and perpendicular to the goods support surface of the trailing belt 30 , in the 3 is visible from above.

Consequently, the pivot arms 90 . 91 directly over the goods support surface of the trailing belt 30 pivotable. When they are in their respective deflection position 90 ' . 91 ' Therefore, no goods between the goods support surface and the respective swivel arm can be pivoted 90 . 91 drive through.

In a first configuration of the distribution mechanism, the first swing arm is located 90 in its deflection position 90 ' , As a result, he steers the on the tail belt 30 transported goods in the first lateral goods trough 50a from. The second swivel arm 91 is meanwhile in its neutral position.

In a second configuration of the distribution mechanism is the first pivot arm 90 in its neutral position, as in 3 is shown. The first swivel arm 90 steers the on the tail belt 30 transported goods but instead forms with one of the registration unit 20 facing part a side guide for the goods. The second swivel arm 91 is on the other hand in its deflection position 91 ' and thereby steers the on the tail belt 30 transported goods in the second lateral goods trough 50b around.

In 3 a third configuration of the distribution mechanism is shown. Both the first swivel arm 90 as well as the second swivel arm 91 are in their respective neutral position and steer the on the tail belt 30 not transported goods. They serve instead as a side guide for the goods. Consequently, the trailing band transports 30 the resting goods up to his from the registration unit 20 turned away end, causing them in the rear, third goods trough 50c reach.

In their neutral position are the swivel arms 90 . 91 each parallel to the transport direction 31 aligned and limit the tail belt 30 transverse to the transport direction 31 laterally on the side of the follower belt 30 where they are located.

The checkout arrangement 3 is also in 4 shown in a perspective view.

In 4 is a good door 25 for access to the cashier compartment 24 to recognize. There is also a module for cash payments 70 visible to the payment terminals 60 the second lateral goods trough 50b and the third goods trough 60c is assigned. It can be flexible for both goods troughs 50b . 50c to be used for payment with cash. About the screen running as a touchpad 62 of the respective payment terminal 60 the goods troughs 50b . 50c Customers can optionally use the module for cash payments 70 to pay. The module for cash payments 70 uses the screen during the payment process 62 of the payment terminal 60 from which it was dialed. It includes a coin acceptor 73 , a bill collection 74 and an output tray 75 to issue change and receipts.

In 4 is also clearly visible that floors of the goods troughs 50a . 50b , 50c are inclined by one end, with which they directly to the tail belt 30 connect, fall down. This will cause goods to slip off the trailing belt 30 into one of the goods troughs 50a . 50b . 50c have been passed, in this further outward to an outer edge of the respective goods trough 50a , 50b, 50c. So becomes a capacity of the goods troughs 50a . 50b . 50c optimally used and customers can remove the goods more easily.

The checkout arrangement according to the invention ensures shorter waiting times for the customers, relieves the cashier and has improved ergonomics for the cashier. At the same time, the efficiency of the cashier's work is increased.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

10

leader tape

20

acquisition unit

21

goods scanners

22

screen

23

receipt printer

24

cashier compartment

25

door

30

leader tape

31

transport direction

32

band

40

deflecting

40 '

first position

40 "

third position

41

carriage

42

rail construction

43

deflection

44

The End

45 '

intermediate position

50, 50a, 50b, 50c

were depression

51

partition wall

60

payment terminal

61

Card payment terminal

62

screen

70

Module for cash payments

71

screen

72

receipt printer

73

A coin acceptor

74

Banknote feeder

75

output tray

80, 81, 90, 91

swivel arm

80 ', 81', 90 ', 91'

deflecting

Claims (16)

Cash desk arrangement with a detection unit (20) for detecting goods by a cashier, a tracking belt (30), which adjoins the detection unit (20), at least three goods troughs (50, 50a, 50b, 50c), each immediately adjacent to the tail conveyor (30), which is designed for transporting the detected goods from the detection unit (20) to the goods troughs (50, 50a, 50b, 50c) , and a distribution mechanism capable of automatically and / or manually accepting a number of different spatial configurations corresponding to a total number of goods troughs (50; 50a, 50b, 50c), the goods carried on the tail conveyor (30) in each of the configurations of the distribution mechanism from the follower belt (30) are led directly into a respective other goods trough (50; 50a, 50b, 50c), wherein the distribution mechanism comprises at least one deflecting element (40, 80, 81, 90, 91) which is automatically and / or manually adjustable between at least two positions (40 ', 40 ", 80', 81 ', 90', 91 ') and in at least one of these positions (40 ', 40 ", 80', 81 ', 90', 91 ') projects beyond the trailing belt (30) in order to transport the goods transported on the trailing belt (30) directly into one of the goods troughs (50 50a, 50b, 50c), wherein each of the goods troughs (50; 50a, 50b, 50c) is associated with its own payment terminal (60) which is connected to the registration unit (20). Checkout arrangement after Claim 1 , characterized in that the at least one deflecting element (40; 80, 81; 90, 91) is automatically adjustable between the at least two positions (40 ', 40 ", 80', 81 ', 90', 91 '). Checkout arrangement after Claim 2 , characterized in that the distribution mechanism can automatically assume the number of different spatial configurations corresponding to the total number of goods troughs (50; 50a, 50b, 50c). Cash desk arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the goods troughs (50) along a transport direction (30) of the trailing belt (30) are arranged one behind the other and all goods troughs (50) or all but one of the goods troughs (50) side of the trailing belt ( 30) are arranged on the same side of the follower belt (30). Checkout arrangement after Claim 4 , characterized in that all goods troughs (50) on the same side of the follower belt (30) are arranged and that the deflecting element (40) by means of a linear guide (41, 42) along the transport direction (31) is movable, wherein the deflecting element (40 ) extends over the trailing belt (30) across its width transversely to the transport direction (31) and along the transport direction (31) by means of the linear guide (41, 42) in a number of different positions (40 ', 40 ") automatically and / or manually is displaceable, which corresponds to the total number of goods troughs (50), and wherein the deflecting element (40) on the trailing belt (30) transported goods in each of these positions (40 ', 40 ") of the trailing belt (30) in one another the goods troughs (50) deflects. Checkout arrangement after Claim 4 , characterized in that the cash desk arrangement has exactly three goods troughs (50) and that the distribution mechanism has a first deflecting element (80) and a second deflecting element (81), each automatically and / or manually between a deflecting position (80 ', 81') and a neutral position about a respective axis of rotation (83, 84) are rotatable, wherein the axes of rotation (83, 84) in each case at least substantially perpendicular to the transport direction (31) and to a goods support surface of the trailing belt (30) are oriented, wherein the first deflecting element (80) in the transport direction (31) seen before the second deflecting element (81) is arranged, wherein in a first configuration of the distribution mechanism, the first deflecting element (80) is in its deflecting position (80 ') and on the trailing belt (30) transported Goods in a first lateral goods well (50) deflects, wherein in a second configuration of the distribution mechanism, the first deflecting element (80) in his Neutral position is located while the second deflecting element (81) is in its deflecting position (81 ') and deflects the goods transported on the tail conveyor (30) goods in a second lateral goods trough (50), and wherein in a third configuration of the distribution mechanism, the first Deflection element (80) and the second deflecting element (81) each in your Neutral position are located and transported by the wake belt (30) goods to a third goods trough (50) are transported. Cash desk arrangement according to one of Claims 1 to 3 , characterized in that the checkout arrangement has exactly three goods troughs (50a, 50b, 50c), wherein two lateral goods troughs (50a, 50b) are formed on transversely to the transport direction (31) opposite sides of the follower belt (30) and also a third goods trough ( 50c) is disposed at one end of the trailing belt (30). Checkout arrangement after Claim 7 , characterized in that the distribution mechanism comprises a first deflecting element (90) and a second deflecting element (91), each automatically and / or manually between a deflecting position (90 ', 91') and a neutral position about a respective axis of rotation (93, 94 ) are rotatable, wherein the axes of rotation (93, 94) are oriented at least substantially perpendicular to the transport direction (31) and to a goods support surface of the trailing belt (30), wherein in a first configuration of the distribution mechanism, the second deflecting element (91) in is in its neutral position, while the first deflecting element (90) is in its deflecting position (90 ') and deflects the goods transported on the trailing belt (30) into a first lateral goods trough (50a), wherein in a second configuration of the distributing mechanism the first one Deflection element (90) is in its neutral position, while the second deflecting element (91) is in its deflection position (91 ') and deflects the goods transported on the tail conveyor (30) into a second lateral goods trough (50b), and wherein in a third configuration of the distribution mechanism the first deflecting element (90) and the second deflecting element (91) are respectively in their neutral position and those of the after-run band (30) transported goods from the trailing band (30) to the third goods trough (50 c) to be transported. Ticket counter arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each payment terminal (60) is respectively arranged at or directly at the goods trough (50; 50a, 50b, 50c) to which it is associated. Countertop assembly according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that each of the payment terminals (60) comprises a card payment terminal (61). Ticket counter arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cash desk arrangement comprises at least one module for cash payments (70). A checkout arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that for at least one of the goods troughs (50; 50a, 50b, 50c) a signaling device for the confirmation of the status of payment transactions at this goods trough (50; 50a, 50b, 50c) and / or the payment terminal (60) assigned to this goods trough (50; 50a, 50b, 50c) is provided. Checkout arrangement after Claim 12 , characterized in that the signal device is designed as a light signal device at the payment terminal (60) and / or at the associated goods trough (50; 50a, 50b, 50c). A checkout arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the detection unit (20), after completion of the detection of related goods, causes the configuration of the distribution mechanism to change automatically. A cash desk arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the detection unit (20) is adapted to manually select from the cashier the goods trough (50; 50a, 50b, 50c) into which the goods transported on the tail conveyor (30) and then causes the distribution mechanism to automatically assume its required configuration. Checkout counter arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a control unit is provided for controlling the distribution mechanism, which is connected to the detection unit (20).

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